http://bcndpcaucus.ca
MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
May 27, 2008

NEW CONFLICT COMPLAINT RAISES QUESTIONS ABOUT
PREMIER’S SALE OF ENERGY SHARES

VICTORIA –NDP MLA Guy Gentner filed a complaint with B.C.’s Conflict of Interest Commissioner today regarding the Premier’s sale of shares in an energy company.

“The purchase and sale of the Premier’s direct shares in Terra Energy raises troubling questions that I believe require an independent investigation by B.C.’s Conflict Commissioner,” said Gentner, MLA for Delta North.

Gentner’s complaint flows from the Premier’s sale of shares he purchased from Terra Energy in 2005. Following the share purchase, the Premier signed a regulation granting energy companies, including Terra Energy, the right to claim pipelines as a tax deduction. The change allowed for a significant decrease in corporate taxes and increases in profitability. In April 2006, the Premier sold his shares at a profit.

“The change allowed the company to significantly decrease their corporate taxes and likely helped make the Premier a significant profit before selling his shares,” said Gentner.

The Members Conflict of Interest Act prohibits various activities where a member has the potential to further their private interest.

– 30 –

Media Contact: Karin Heimlich, 250-889-6308

MLA’s letter, facts summary and timeline: